The Official Newsletter of Bay Creek, Cape Charles, Virginia
In This Issue: Bay Creek Winter Calendar: King and Bear Golf Tournament Thanksgiving-To-Go 21st Artisan Guild Open Studio Tour Festive Fridays 12th Annual Grand Illumination and Golf Cart Parade Golf Pro Shop’s Annual Balloon Sale and Snowball Golf Tournament Cape Charles Cookie Trail 17th Annual Tool Mania Virginia Symphony Presents Holiday Brass 10th Annual Dropping of the Crab Pot and New Years Party 5th Annual Polar Bear Plunge
Bay Creek Soundings is published quarterly by Bay Creek Realty. Drop us a line at info@BayCreekLife.com or call toll free 844.620.2900 Or you can always see us at BayCreekLife.com
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
FALL AND WINTER AT BAY CREEK welcomes the season of gathering and celebrating on the magnificent Eastern Shore.
Soundings With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s an ideal time to come to Cape Charles and immerse yourself in the rich, relaxed character of this idyllic hometown on Virginia’s gorgeous Eastern Shore. We spoke with Bobby Masters, President of Bay Creek Development, to find out more about why the fall and winter seasons are such an attractive time to be in Bay Creek.
“There’s just so much to enjoy, and the Eastern Shore really offers a lot of opportunity to celebrate this time of year. People look forward to cherished holiday traditions like Festive Fridays, special entertainment events, and historic home tours”, Bobby says. “Sitting on the Bay beaches and watching the shorebirds, going for a walk through the Nature Preserve with family…these are the things we do here that aren’t big things, but they’re the things we remember for years.”
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
Meandering through the Bay Creek Nature Preserve as red, gold and orange leaves twirl down, or watching a famously fiery sunset over the Bay is par for the course during this time of year at Bay Creek. But there are special events that members and guests look forward to, as well.
“We’ll once again be hosting two much-anticipated annual golf tournaments,” says Bobby. “King & Bear is always well attended, and the Snowball Tournament is just a great way for members to get out on the course and have fun. We’ll also be hosting our annual Member Appreciation Event in December. This year we’re excited to have it in the Coach House Tavern and be able to utilize the newly completed event space. This event is an opportunity for us to thank our members for their support and for helping to make Bay Creek such a special community”.
Bay Creek and historic Cape Charles are certainly a merry and bright place to be as the autumn days roll into winter’s holiday cheer. Why not seize the season this year? Plan a getaway to Cape Charles with family and friends and immerse yourself in the traditions and personality of the Shore.
“On behalf of the entire Bay Creek team, I invite one and all to join us here on the Eastern Shore and make this a holiday season to remember.” ~ Bobby Masters
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Here’s a calendar of what’s happening at Bay Creek and along the Eastern Shore. NOV 4-5
King & Bear Golf Tournament
Page 5
NOV 23
Thanksgiving-To-Go
Page 6
NOV 24-25
21st ESVA Artisan Guild Open Studio Tour
Page 7
NOV 24 -Dec 22 Festive Fridays
Page 8
DEC 2
12th Annual Grand Illumination and Golf Cart Parade
Page 10
DEC 2
The Golf Pro Shop’s Annual Balloon Sale and Snowball Golf Tournament
Page 12
DEC 9
Cape Charles Cookie Trail
Page 13
DEC 9
17th Annual Tool Mania
Page 14
DEC 16
Virginia Symphony Presents Holiday Brass
Page 15
DEC 31
10th Annual Dropping of the Crab Pot and New Years Party
Page 16
JAN 1
5th Anual Polar Bear Plunge
Page 17
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
King & Bear Golf Tournament NOV 4-5 | BAY CREEK Held annually, the King and Bear Fall Tournament is always hugely popular. This two-person team event, open to Amateur and Pro golfers, is a great way to experience Bay Creek’s famed Nicklaus and Palmer courses while enjoying good company and breathtaking Eastern Shore scenery. The tournament enjoys the pleasant autumn weather that the Eastern Shore is known for and of course, top-notch Bay Creek Club hospitality. Golfers from all over the United States and Canada participate, playing 36 holes on Bay Creek’s inimitable Palmer and Nicklaus Signature courses. Bay Creek golfers always make a strong showing in the tournament, teaming up with fellow members or invited guests.
The King and Bear Tournament is a memorable event that enables players outside the Club to experience Bay Creek’s acclaimed golf experience. If you’re a golfer who has never had the pleasure of enjoying the unique Eastern Shore courses at Bay Creek, you may want to consider King and Bear in 2024.
Soundings
Thanksgiving-To-Go NOV 23 | BAY CREEK
thanksgiving menu
If you’re planning to spend Thanksgiving at Bay Creek (it’s an amazing place to celebrate!), consider enjoying a Thanksgiving Dinner that’s as effortless as walking on a sandy Bay beach… This year, Bay Creek is once again offering Thanksgiving-to-Go. It’s a full, fabulous Thanksgiving meal prepared by the fine chefs at Bay Creek’s own Coach House Tavern. Give yourself the gift of an easy, no-stress Thanksgiving this year with our Thanksgiving To-Go package. Embrace the warmth of the season, the love of family and friends, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal in an incredible community.
Coach House Tavern's
THANKSGIVING TO-GO SPECIAL SERVING SIZE FOR 4 (OPTION AVAILABLE TO ORDER FOR 2)
1 LB TURKEY (WHITE MEAT ONLY) 1 LB HAM MASHED POTATOES & GRAVY GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE STUFFING CRANBERRY SAUCE DINNER ROLLS (ADD 4 CRAB CAKES FOR ADDITONAL $60) DESSERT WHOLE PUMPKIN PIE FOR ONLY
$99.00 +TAX
All orders must be preordered by November 17th Orders available for pick up on Thanksgiving day.
Cancellation Policy - All orders must be cancelled by November 20th to avoid being charged the full cost of the order. Any no shows will be charged the full cost of the order.
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
Celebrate the Jolly Season with Art & Wine THE EASTERN SHORE OF VIRGINIA ARTISANS GUILD INVITES YOU TO A HOLIDAY TRADITION: THE 21ST ESVA ARTISAN GUILD OPEN STUDIO TOUR NOV 24 -25 | CAPE CHARLES TO ONANCOCK Thanksgiving weekend marks a cherished tradition for the ESVA Artisans Guild. It’s the much-anticipated Holiday Open Studio Tour. This self-guided jaunt is a festive shopping and wine tasting tour representing talented Guild artists working in wood, oil, glass, stonework, jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal and more. It’s a rare occasion where each of the 52 participating artisans open their private studios to the public. The Holiday Open Studio Tour has been held since 2002 and seems to grow more popular every year. For more than two decades it has promised (and delivered!) incredible art and even a bit of adventure as guests travel along scenic routes to home studios, a vineyard, galleries, a museum and a historic school. Drop in and explore at Chatham Flower Farm, Chatham
Vineyard, Ker Place History Museum, Windsor Woodworks, and JK Pottery, just to name a few. This self-driving artisan tour consists of 18 different stops spanning about 40 miles, representing 52 diverse and talented artisans— from Cape Charles to Onancock. Follow the map and stop into the studios that catch your fancy. Besides the lovely artwork guests can talk with artists and learn about their inspiration and technique. The tour offers a ‘Passport Card’ (available at every location). Pick yours up and have it stamped at each stop on the tour for an opportunity to win a gift certificate from $25 up to $100 to spend with your favorite Guild Tour artist.
The tour is free and welcomes all to come and explore the Guild artisans’ work. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to select one-of-a-kind holiday gifts that reflect the unique Eastern Shore community, all created by Eastern Shore artisans. The delightful wine tastings along the tour add a bit of extra ‘jolly’ to this popular excursion, too! THE 21ST ANNUAL ARTISANS GUILD OPEN STUDIO TOUR Friday, November 24 & Saturday, November 25 10am - 5pm READY TO PLAN YOUR TOUR ROUTE? It’s easy with the Official Tour Brochure: GET YOUR TOUR BROCHURE
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ENJOY THE NOSTALGIA AND CHEER OF THE HOLIDAYS DURING
Historic Cape Charles Festive Fridays NOV 24 - DEC 22 | HISTORIC CAPE CHARLES You won’t want to miss one of Cape Charles’ most beloved annual events, ‘Festive Fridays’. This year, Festive Fridays will don the theme of ‘Cape Charles Winter Wonderland’ and it promises to be just as spectacular as it sounds! For five special Fridays, November 24th – December 22nd, Cape Charlesians and visitors from far and wide celebrate the holiday season with old-fashioned small-town charm and Christmas wonder. It’s a magical blend of holiday delights where good cheer, beautiful decorations
and sparkling trees fill the historic streets of Cape Charles. Neighborly fun, free familyfriendly activities, and holiday magic abound. Christmas trees will be lighted along Mason Avenue and in Strawberry Street Plaza, illuminating the area with a festive glow. Enjoy joyful tunes from the Northampton High School marching band. Take in a complimentary horse-drawn carriage ride among the magical, twinkling avenues. Set out and explore Cape
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
Charles’ incredible array of shops, eateries, galleries and more. Many local shops offer First Friday holiday open houses, special sales, door prizes and seasonal treats! Plus, you’ll find kids activities — like face-painting, pony rides and a petting zoo — and not-to-be-missed seasonal sales and restaurant specials. While you’re here, take in a holiday picture show! The Historic Palace Theatre will be showing FREE Christmas movies each Friday at 8pm. This year, it’s a line-up of holiday favorites with something for everyone: The Polar Express, Elf, The Santa Clause, Christmas Vacation and Nightmare Before Christmas. Note for the nice and especially the naughty: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at each Festive Friday this year. They’d love to see you and chat about how good you’ve been—or discuss how to turn around that ‘naughty’ label before Christmas Eve. Stop by to see them in Strawberry Street Plaza with its magical snowfall. They’re ready to chat with, enchant and entertain children of all ages.
Bay Creek wishes to thank in advance everyone with Cape Charles Main Street and the many members of the Cape Charles community who are happily volunteering to, once again, put on an old-fashioned Cape Charles holiday celebration. We look forward to seeing you out and about amongst the Merry and Bright streets of our hometown, Cape Charles.
Be Festive With Us! CAPE CHARLES FESTIVE FRIDAYS 2023 Historic Cape Charles Fridays - Nov 24th, Dec 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd 5pm – 8pm
See more at: facebook.com/festivefridayscapecharles
Shop, Savor, Stroll, Stay Enjoy a Coastal Holiday!
Soundings
12th Annual Grand Illumination and Golf Cart Parade DEC 2 | CAPE CHARLES CENTRAL PARK Cape Charles has many ways to celebrate the holiday season but what many consider the official kickoff is the annual event called “Grand Illumination.” Held in Cape Charles’ Central Park, Grand Illumination is shimmering, glimmering festive fun. The day is made up of several popular traditions. The first is the Golf Cart Parade where fabulously decorated golf carts blink and shine with all manner of holiday decoration. No matter the style of decoration— silly to sentimental, understated to over the top—all reflect the Eastern Shore style and good humor of our classic Americana hometown. Bay Creekers always take part in the
parade and have been known to deck the carts in the most incredible and elaborate ways! The best carts win prizes and, of course, bragging rights until next year’s parade!
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
Grand Illumination officially begins at 5:30pm with the official ‘lighting’ at 6pm. Live music, the merry golf carts, friends, family, and neighbors…Grand Illumination brings the very best of Cape Charles together in one memorable night. In the park, those who feel moved to do so can join in singing traditional Christmas carols. Then the Illumination commences, and the Gazebo and all the trees in Central Park come to life with thousands of twinkling lights. The Cape Charles Lighted Boat Parade kicks off at 6:30pm from Town Harbor and Oyster Farm Marina. What an Eastern Shore way to celebrate the holiday season, watching brightly decorated and illuminated watercraft sail from the marina and the harbor. ‘Docktails’ will be served, the lights of the parade boats will be reflecting in the glassy waters of the harbor beneath a starry December sky, and for a moment, everything will feel a bit like magic.
Soundings
GOLF PRO SHOP’S
19th Annual Balloon Sale DEC 2 | BAY CREEK The 19th Annual Balloon Sale will take place at the brand-new Pro Shop. This is one of those can’t-miss events! Whether you’re shopping for yourself or are seeking the perfect Christmas gift for that special someone, the Balloon Sale is great fun! Here’s how it works: for each item you select for purchase, you pick a balloon. Inside it is a ticket with a surprise discount. The best part is, you can’t lose! The discounts range from 35% to completely FREE! Brands on sale will include Peter Millar, Turtleson, FootJoy, and much more. The Balloon Sale is always a spirited day at the Pro Shop, and it’s an exciting way to get into the holiday season mood.
Also on December 2 is the annual Snowball Tournament! Every December, the Snowball Tournament takes place on Bay Creek’s own gorgeous Palmer Course. It’s a Shotgun start at 10:00am and it’s always a fun, invigorating time! The Snowball tournament is open to Golf Members & their Guests. May we also suggest a ‘warm-up’ at the Coach House Tavern after the Tournament? A steaming cup of local coffee or a warming adult beverage is just the thing to take the chill off after a rousing early December tournament!
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
HISTORIC CAPE CHARLES
Cookie Trail DEC 9 | BAY CREEK
Treat yourself to a delicious and delightful walk through history during the Historic Homes Cookie Trail. An ideal jaunt to enjoy with family and friends, the Cookie Trail tour map leads guests along a route of beautifully decorated historic Bed & Breakfasts and homes along the charming streets of Cape Charles. Inside, guests can sample tasty holiday cookies and confections, while taking in the architecture, décor and festive decorations of some of Cape Charles’ loveliest historic homes and B&Bs. This free event gratefully accepts donations from guests with proceeds benefitting the Cape Charles Food pantry. The 2023 Historic Homes Cookie Trail is planning this to be its sweetest and best year ever—make plans to enjoy this Cape Charles tradition.
To attend, register at the Almeta Café in the Hotel Cape Charles on 235 Mason Avenue, pick up an event map, and visit as many homes as you like along the trail. The Northampton Hotel, one of the stops on the tour, will be selling a specialty cocktail for the event. The entry fee for this event is the contribution of a non-perishable food item, which will be donated to the Eastern Shore Food Pantry and Food Bank. Ornaments, produced by Sunday Table Company in Richmond, will be on sale with proceeds benefiting the Cape Charles Volunteer Fire Department. Cash donations are also gratefully accepted. This inspiring event is hosted by the Cape Charles Vacation Homeowner’s Association and the Town of Cape Charles. GET MORE INFORMATION HERE
Soundings
17th Annual Tool Mania DEC 9 | CAPE CHARLES VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY Cape Charles Volunteer Fire Company presents the wildly popular event, Tool Mania! Benefitting the Cape Charles Volunteer Fire Company, this high energy, wildy fun event is a night of tool raffles, silent auctions and door prizes. With an incredibly huge collection of new tools, ‘toys,’ and equipment, Tool Mania is one of those events any tool guy or gal would kick themselves for missing! With drawings every 10 minutes and 27+ chances to win with every ticket, this benefit event is a craftsman’s Christmas dream come true!
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
USHERING IN THE SEASON WITH A BOLD, BEAUTIFUL SOUND
Virginia Symphony’s Holiday Brass DEC 16 | HISTORIC PALACE THEATER The bright call of seagulls and gentle waves lapping on Bay beaches are a typical ‘soundtrack’ for a Bay Creek day. But when the holidays roll around, Cape Charles comes alive with celebratory sounds of a different sort, courtesy of the Virginia Symphony. The Historic Palace Theatre will host many a seasonal celebration this winter—and perhaps the boldest may be Holiday Brass, a performance filled with the sounds of the Virginia Symphony brass section.
VIRGINIA SYMPHONY PRESENTS HOLIDAY BRASS Saturday, December 16 | 7:30pm Historic Palace Theater 305 Mason Avenue, Cape Charles Tickets are $30 for Adults & $15 for Students GET TICKETS
Savor the sounds of the holiday season in a concert at the Historic Palace Theatre with this fanciful performance. The performance promises to ring in the holidays with a blast! This all-new program has been hailed as an evening “filled with wit, virtuosity, and the glorious music of the holidays.” Settle in and be delighted by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra brass and percussion sections’ celebratory, sensational sounds. You’ll hear rousing music from a variety of styles among the historic charm and magic of Cape Charles’ lovingly restored, historic Palace Theatre.
The Historic Palace Theatre, opened in 1942, is a masterwork in Art Deco style, and was described as one of the largest and most ornate picture theatres between Norfolk and Philadelphia at the time. Now lovingly restored, it serves as a beloved community landmark and active center for the Arts.
Soundings
10th Annual Dropping of the Crab Pot and New Years Party DEC 31 | CAPE CHARLES The Eastern Shore is known for its stunningly unique landscape, interesting individuals, and quirky sense of fun. So when New Years Eve rolls around, of course the charming town of Cape Charles doesn’t do a ‘Ball Drop’ a la NYC.
BE THERE WHEN THE CRAB POT DROPS: Sunday, December 31 9:30pm to 10:30pm Crab Pot drops at 10pm Downtown Cape Charles Mason Avenue Across from the Cape Charles Memorial Library
In Cape Charles, merry-makers and revelers enjoy the Dropping of the Crab Pot. Festooned with colorful lights, the giant crab pot, hoisted high by crane, drops at 10pm—not midnight. This is so families and guests of all ages can enjoy the tradition and still be tucked into bed before 2024 arrives if they choose. It’s also been noted that at 10pm in Cape Charles, it’s midnight in Greenland so, why not?
The local community and visitors (some from as far away as Norway!) gather on Mason Avenue and enjoy fireworks, live music, camaraderie and witness the illuminated crab pot do its thing. Imagine yourself with family, friends, and a festive drink in the night air cheering as the illuminated crab pot—complete with a handsome and hefty blue crab—drops and ushers in 2024 Eastern Shore style.
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
START 2024 BY TAKING THE POLAR BEAR PLUNGE AT THE
5th Annual First Day in The Bay Event! JAN 1 | MADISON AVE BEACH, CAPE CHARLES The First Day in the Bay event, with a Polar Bear Plunge into the Cheasapeake Bay, has quickly cemented itself as a Cape Charles tradition since its inaugural run in January of 2020. The event is a cool way to start the new year alongside several hundred other brave neighbors and visitors. Last year’s Polar plungers enjoyed air temps of around 65 degrees and water in the 50s. A friendly reminder: it is the Polar Bear not bare Plunge. So don ye now your favorite swimsuit and get ready for the thrill of the chill! Jumping in a cold Bay not your idea of an ideal New Years Day activity? Stay dry and just enjoy the show! Mimosas and Bloody Marys have been sighted from time to time and seem to warm things up nicely.
First Day in the Bay is a charity event whose proceeds support the local community. Donations are, of course, welcomed. Good things to eat and all kinds of beverages will be available for purchase. Advance registration is available online. The fun begins at 11am—join the community for this invigorrrating charity event!
TAKE THE PLUNGE! Monday, January 1, 2024 | 11:00am - 12:00pm Madison Avenue Beach, Cape Charles Cost: Free. Donations are welcomed.
Soundings
Make Plans to
Make the Season Special
This fall and winter, set out on your own Eastern Shore holiday excursion. Bay Creek is full of activity and there are all manner of celebrations and unique experiences to enjoy. If you’d like to learn more about visiting Bay Creek and learning about its lifestyle, homes, the Club, and the incredible community of Cape Charles, contact us. We can help you plan a memorable stay and sample Eastern Shore living at Bay Creek. However you choose to celebrate in the coming weeks, Bay Creek wishes you a lovely Thanksgiving and holiday season here on the Eastern Shore, or wherever you may be!
Winter 2023 | Issue 22
It’s not a contest but Cape Charles and Bay Creek have certainly earned their share of ‘best of’ titles and superlatives.
Cape Charles has been named as
“Prettiest Beach Town in Virginia” and among the
“Happiest Seaside Towns” by Coastal Living, and it has been hailed as
“The Perfect Beach Town” by Southern Living. Bay Creek’s best of’s include
“Best Coastal Community In Virginia” according to ideal-LIVING, along with
“Top 100 Places To Live In The U.S.”
Premier Coastal Living on Virginia’s Cape
Set upon 1,720 lush acres along the Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a master-planned community that brings families together to live their best life through a connection with its coastal landscape, nature, phenomenal club amenities and active lifestyle programming. From exploring sparkling bay waters to hosting friends for dinner on the porch of your welcoming new coastal home, Bay Creek is the easy-going, elegant lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. We invite you to explore this natural wonderland in a place where residents connect, forge friendships and pursue their interests and passions. There is truly nothing like it on the coast of Virginia.
BayCreekLife.com
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Contact us for details of our Discovery Visit Package
844.620.2900
info@ BayCreekLife.com
Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or values, if any, of the property. This is not intended to be and does not constitute an offer in any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prices and square footages are provided for reference only but are subject to change and not guaranteed. Renderings are artist’s conceptual illustrations and are subject to change. Sales by Bay Creek Realty/Broker. ©2023 Bay Creek. All rights reserved.